The relationship between nurses' personality type and job satisfaction

Background and Purpose: Nurses constitute the largest group of human resources in healthcare systems of almost all countries; they also play a significant role in community health promotion. Nurses' job satisfaction is of great importance in the promotion of healthcare quality. Therefore, the present study aimed to analyze the relationship between personality type (type A & B) and job satisfaction in nurses. Methods: In this correlational study, personality type and job satisfaction were evaluated, using Friedman & Rosenman questionnaire and Varo questionnaire, respectively. Overall, 142 nurses were selected via stratified random sampling from Bu-Ali Sina Treatment and Educational Center of Sari, Iran. For data analysis, t-test, Pearson's correlation test and ANOVA were performed, using SPSS version 14. Results: As the results indicated, the majority of samples were female (90.1%) and staff nurses (81.7%); also, 92.3% of the participants had bachelor's degrees. Overall, the mean score of job satisfaction was estimated at 48±10. The findings suggested a significant relationship between personality type and job satisfaction (P=0.032). Also, subjects with type B personality were more satisfied with their careers, compared to those with type A personality; the observed difference was statistically significant (P=0.035). Additionally, nurses' job satisfaction was significantly associated with their educational level (P=0.025). Conclusion: A Considering the characteristics of nurses with type B personality, they were more satisfied with their careers, compared to others. In order to increase nurses' job satisfaction, practitioners are recommended to conduct interviews and psychological tests to identify nurses' personality type and accordingly, provide them with systematic, regular psychological consultation.